Ingredients

1 can italian chopped tomatoes
1 bunch fresh spinach , washed and de-stemmed
6 cloves garlic , peeled and finely chopped
16 ounces fresh goat cheese
1/2 cup plain nonfat yogurt
2 teaspoons fresh thyme , leaves only or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
6 leeks , white part only , sliced crosswise into very thin rings
6 tablespoons olive oil
2 1/2 cups cornmeal
8 cups water
salt
pepper
Polenta is a traditional Italian dish that has been eaten for centuries. It is made from boiled cornmeal and is similar in texture to grits or porridge. Polenta is highly versatile and can be eaten as a side dish, a main course, or even as a dessert. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and can be flavored with a wide variety of ingredients. In this recipe, we have created an elegant and colorful version of polenta that is perfect for a hearty meal. By adding spinach, garlic, leeks, thyme, and goat cheese to the mix, we have created a dish that is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Instructions

1.Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat and add sliced leeks. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until they soften and become translucent.
2.Add finely chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3.Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes until the liquid has reduced.
4.Add washed and de-stemmed spinach to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until it wilts.
5.In a separate large pot, bring water to a gentle boil and add cornmeal slowly, whisking continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
6.Lower the heat and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Add goat cheese and yogurt, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
7.Divide the mixture into 3 equal parts. To one part, add leeks and garlic. To another part, add spinach and thyme. Keep the third part plain.
8.Grease a baking sheet or a large rectangular dish with the remaining olive oil. Pour each of the polenta mixtures onto it, one at a time. Spread them out evenly.
9.Let the polenta cool down for 30 minutes. Then, using a sharp knife, cut them into small squares or diamonds.
10.Heat up the squares in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve them hot and enjoy!

PROS

Elegant Tri-Colored Polenta is packed with flavor and is highly customizable.
You can add other vegetables or herbs to it to suit your tastes.

This dish is also vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free.

CONS

This dish takes a bit of time and effort to prepare.
You have to stir the polenta mix constantly while cooking, and it needs time to cool down before cutting it into squares.

Also, some people might not like the texture of polenta.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Polenta is a low-fat, low-calorie food that is rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber. It is a good source of energy and can help keep you feeling full.
The spinach in this recipe is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin K.
The thyme in this recipe contains antioxidants and has antibacterial properties.

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